Paper Mario: The Origami King is the first title in the franchise that I have played. While I had no expectations, the Internet and Nintendo’s fandom seem to be placing a lot of hope in the latest Paper Mario instalment. This is firstly due to the lacklustre sequels the original title had endured. For example, Paper Mario: Color Splash sits at 76 on Metacritic.
Secondly, and most importantly, this is the first Mario game to mark the Italian plumber’s 35th anniversary.
Whilst rumours are starting to fly around about a Mario-based Nintendo Direct at some point next week, the focus shouldn’t be taken away from what I think is quite an enjoyable game on first impressions.
You’re Papier Machéing My Head, Man
It’s no surprise that Princess Peach has, once again, found herself in some form of peril and, once again, needs to be saved by Mario. With the Mushroom Kingdom being invaded more than an EA gamer’s digital wallet, the security detail must be non-existent.
Paper Mario is a breath of fresh air for lovers of sarcasm and dry wit. Off-hand comments are the name of the game, and made me laugh out loud many times. A folded Bowser stating “She can’t see me like this” when approached by Origami Peach is a priceless example.
The title handholds with the determination of an overprotective mother during the opening of the game, making sure that its systems and gameplay mechanics are understood. For some, this may be a dull first hour. However, as the game unfolds and battle difficulty builds, players will be thankful for it.
Running Rings Around Itself
The battle system (which was relentlessly covered by Nintendo Minute and Nintendo Direct) featured rows of circles that Mario must line up to take advantage of damage multipliers to gain a swift advantage. Proving to be more of a puzzle game mechanic than a battle mechanic, it’s a nice spin on an RPG turn-based system. However, with no signs of levelling up Mario or his gear, I’m struggling to appreciate the longevity of the mechanic.
As players progress through Paper Mario, they can hit anything that grows to collect confetti. As glorious as collecting ripped-up tissue can be, a mechanic lies within. Throwing collected confetti onto holes in the games scenery and flooring unlocks new pathways and items. The gimmick hasn’t outweighed the typical fetch and find mechanics of 3D Mario titles.
Speaking of dimensions, the development team have done a fantastic job of displaying 2D paper characters in a 3D world. Granted, everything is crafted from card and paper, but creased rescued toads and the page-turning motion of Mario’s movements are beautiful examples of the games polish.
One Sheet Away from Dull?
Paper Mario is a chilled out ride, with nothing particularly pushing players to rush to the next task. Granted, there’s a timer during puzzle battles, but players can spend coins for more time on the clock. Coins are more plentiful in Paper Mario: The Origami King than milk in my fridge. My close friends and family will tell you, I have a big Milk problem. It’s just so satisfying and quenches my thirst no matter what situation I’m in.
All of the usual sound effects, bells and whistles are present. Around 80% of a Mario titles authenticity is in its soundtrack and effects. I can’t remember the last Mario title bar the original that didn’t feature the underground theme, and I wouldn’t change that for anything.
Nintendo = Paper Lovers
Paper Mario: The Origami King is another win for Nintendo’s current flagship. Long live the brilliant string of first-party titles on Nintendo Switch.
My next article will contrast my initial thoughts on Paper Mario with my opinions a few hours in. Whilst first impressions are abundantly important within gaming, the momentum of titles hold equal weight. Let’s hope Paper Mario: The Origami King doesn’t fold under its own weight.
And no, I’m still not sorry.
